March 15 is World Social Work Day! Having a social worker is an important part of the multidisciplinary care the Thompson Center offers its patients. Brittany Williams is a social work student doing her practicum at the Thompson Center this semester. Read her spotlight to learn more about her!
How long have you worked for the Thompson Center?
I’ve been a practicum student here since January of this year.
Where are you from?
I grew up in Southwest Virginia, but I’ve lived in Columbia for the last 8 years.
What is your educational background?
I’m currently getting my Master of Social Work degree from the University of Missouri. I also got my BA in psychology at MU.
What is your favorite thing about working at the Thompson Center?
My favorite thing about working at the Thompson Center is interacting with families and learning about their different experiences.
What got you interested in working with people with autism?
My life-long best friend has three children on the spectrum. Watching her go through this process inspired me to get involved!
What do you wish more people knew about your job?
I think social work and autism both can look so different from situation to situation. It’s not a one size fits all.
What is the most valuable thing you’ve learned in your time working at the Thompson Center?
Learning about the needs of the families we see and how I can be a better asset to the community has been so important to me. This has really been a deeply rewarding experience that has shaped the sort of social worker I want to be.
When you’re not working, what do you enjoy doing?
I enjoy spending time with my family and reading things that aren’t related to school!